Spain Coast
Costa Blanca Holidays
Discover golden beaches, stylish resorts, charming old towns and easy Mediterranean sunshine with Costa Blanca holidays designed for UK travellers who want choice, comfort and value.
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Image ALT suggestions: Costa Blanca beach promenade at sunrise; Benidorm skyline and Levante Beach; Calpe beach with Peñón de Ifach; Altea old town with whitewashed streets; Javea cove with turquoise water; Alicante marina and palm-lined promenade; Family beach day on the Costa Blanca; Luxury coastal resort on the Costa Blanca; Costa Blanca seafood dining by the sea; Tram travelling along the Costa Blanca coast.
Costa Blanca holidays remain one of the most popular choices for UK travellers because the region offers something for almost every style of break. Stretching along Spain’s south-eastern coast, this sunny part of the Alicante province combines reliable weather, a wide choice of resorts, sandy beaches, lively nightlife, family attractions and elegant corners for a more relaxed escape. Whether you want a classic beach holiday, a stylish couples’ trip, a family-friendly resort or a longer sunshine stay, Costa Blanca delivers a broad mix of experiences with easy access from the UK.
Why Visit Costa Blanca
One of the biggest reasons to choose Costa Blanca is variety. Some travellers picture Benidorm first, with its famous beaches, entertainment and lively atmosphere, but the region is far broader than one resort. You will also find elegant marinas, peaceful coves, traditional Spanish towns, scenic promenades and family-friendly coastal bases that feel very different from one another. That makes Costa Blanca ideal for travellers who want to match the destination to their holiday style rather than settle for a one-size-fits-all break.
The region suits families particularly well because it combines practical convenience with plenty to do. Many resorts have long sandy beaches, shallow bathing areas, seafront walks, water parks, boat trips and accommodation designed around family needs. Restaurants are generally easy-going, supermarkets are widely available and airport transfers can be straightforward, which helps make the overall holiday feel less stressful.
Couples and adult groups are equally well served. If you are looking for a more refined atmosphere, places such as Altea, Moraira and Javea offer a slower pace, attractive waterfront settings and a more boutique feel. These areas are ideal for scenic dining, sunset drinks, coastal walks and stylish hotels. For a livelier adults-only break, Benidorm and Alicante provide nightlife, beach clubs and a busy social scene.
Costa Blanca is also a strong option for travellers who want flexibility on budget. You can keep things simple with a self-catering apartment near the beach, choose a comfortable mid-range hotel with a pool, or upgrade to a luxury resort with spa facilities and sea views. This range makes the destination appealing both to value-conscious travellers and to those planning a more premium Mediterranean escape.
Another major draw is the climate. Costa Blanca is known for long sunshine hours and a mild feel beyond the peak summer months. That means it works not only for school summer holidays, but also for spring breaks, autumn escapes and winter sun trips. Travellers who want to swap grey UK skies for brighter days often find Costa Blanca a dependable and easy choice.
The destination also works well as part of a wider Spain holiday plan. If you are comparing coastal breaks, it sits naturally alongside Spain Holidays, Canary Islands Holidays and Portugal Holidays. If you are deciding between styles of trip, Costa Blanca can fit beautifully with Family Holidays, Adults Only Holidays, Luxury Holidays, All Inclusive Holidays and Last Minute Holidays.
Travellers should expect a destination that is easy to enjoy. English is widely understood in many resorts, tourism infrastructure is well established and there is a broad choice of beaches, excursions and dining options. At the same time, it is still possible to find more authentic corners with local markets, old town streets and traditional Spanish character if you look beyond the busiest strips.
For UK holidaymakers, Costa Blanca remains popular because it balances comfort, sunshine and choice. It can be lively or laid-back, affordable or indulgent, familiar or more exploratory depending on where you stay. That flexibility is exactly what keeps travellers returning year after year.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Costa Blanca depends on the kind of holiday you want. For classic beach weather, June to September is the main season, with hot sunny days, warm sea temperatures and a lively resort atmosphere. This is the best period for travellers who want long beach days, water parks, boat trips and a full summer holiday feel.
May, early June, late September and October are often ideal for travellers who prefer warm conditions without the height of summer crowds. These months are excellent for sightseeing, coastal walks, dining outdoors and enjoying the beach in a more relaxed way. Spring and autumn can be especially appealing for couples, older travellers and anyone looking for a balanced sunshine break.
Winter is milder than much of the UK and can still be attractive for longer stays, golf breaks and low-key sunshine escapes. While it is not guaranteed beach weather every day, Costa Blanca remains one of the more appealing European options for travellers seeking brighter skies during the colder months. If winter warmth is your priority, you may also want to compare Winter Sun Holidays for other ideas.
Weather
Spring brings pleasantly warm days, blooming landscapes and comfortable conditions for exploring. It is a good season for combining beach time with sightseeing and day trips. Summer is hot, bright and energetic, with the warmest sea temperatures and the busiest resort atmosphere. Autumn often stays warm well into October, making it a favourite for travellers who want sunshine with a slightly calmer pace. Winter is mild compared with the UK, with cooler evenings and plenty of bright days that still make outdoor dining, walking and coastal stays enjoyable.
Best Areas to Stay
Benidorm
Best for lively beach holidays, family entertainment, nightlife and travellers who want everything close at hand.
Alicante
Great for city-and-beach breaks, short stays, marina dining and travellers who want easy airport access.
Calpe
Popular for scenic beaches, family stays and views of the Peñón de Ifach.
Altea
Ideal for couples, artists, boutique stays and a more elegant old-town atmosphere.
Javea
Excellent for stylish coastal holidays, coves, family villas and a relaxed but polished feel.
Moraira and Torrevieja
Moraira suits quieter upscale breaks, while Torrevieja offers convenience, beaches and a broad range of accommodation.
Best Beaches
Costa Blanca is known for its beach variety. Levante Beach in Benidorm is one of the best known, with a lively promenade and a classic resort atmosphere. Poniente Beach offers a broader, slightly calmer feel. Calpe’s Arenal-Bol beach is popular for family-friendly sand and scenic views, while Playa del Postiguet in Alicante is ideal for travellers staying close to the city. For a more picturesque setting, the coves around Javea and the beaches near Moraira are excellent choices. Albir Beach is a good option for a relaxed promenade walk, and the coastline around Altea offers a more laid-back beach experience with attractive surroundings.
Top Attractions
- Peñón de Ifach in Calpe
- Santa Bárbara Castle in Alicante
- Benidorm Old Town
- Terra Mítica theme park
- Aqualandia water park
- Altea old town
- Tabarca Island
- Javea’s coastal viewpoints and coves
- Guadalest mountain village
- Marina promenades across the coast
Top 10 Things to Do
- Spend a full beach day in Benidorm, Calpe or Javea.
- Walk up to Santa Bárbara Castle for city and sea views.
- Take a boat trip or coastal cruise.
- Visit Tabarca Island for a scenic day out.
- Explore Altea’s whitewashed old town streets.
- Enjoy a family day at a water park or theme park.
- Discover local markets for food, gifts and beachwear.
- Dine on seafood and rice dishes by the marina.
- Take a day trip inland to Guadalest.
- Watch the sunset from a seafront promenade or rooftop terrace.
Family Holidays
Costa Blanca is a strong family destination thanks to its sandy beaches, practical resort layouts and wide choice of accommodation. Families often choose Benidorm for its entertainment, beach access and attractions, while Calpe and Javea appeal to those wanting a slightly calmer setting. Apartment hotels, family resorts with pools and self-catering stays are all popular. The region works especially well for school holiday travel because there is enough variety to keep different ages happy, from beach time and boat trips to water parks and promenades lined with easy dining options.
Adults Only Holidays
For adults-only breaks, Costa Blanca offers much more than nightlife. Couples and friends can enjoy boutique hotels, spa stays, marina restaurants, wine bars and scenic coastal towns with a more refined pace. Altea, Moraira and Javea are particularly appealing for travellers who want style and relaxation, while Alicante offers a sociable mix of beach, culture and evenings out. If you are comparing options, see Adults Only Holidays for more inspiration.
Luxury Holidays
Luxury holidays in Costa Blanca tend to focus on sea-view resorts, elegant boutique hotels, private villas, golf stays and spa experiences. Javea, Moraira, Altea Hills and selected parts of Alicante are good places to look for a more premium stay. Rather than chasing live deals, it is usually best to compare hotel style, location, facilities and board basis to find the right fit. For travellers seeking a more upscale escape, Costa Blanca pairs well with ideas on our Luxury Holidays page.
Food and Drink
Food is a major part of the Costa Blanca experience. Expect fresh seafood, rice dishes, tapas, grilled meats, salads, pastries and plenty of Mediterranean flavour. Beachfront restaurants and marina dining are popular, but some of the most enjoyable meals can be found in old town streets and neighbourhood restaurants away from the busiest tourist strips. Travellers who enjoy local specialities should look out for rice dishes linked to the Valencia region, fresh fish and simple seasonal ingredients served with confidence rather than fuss.
Nightlife
Nightlife varies widely across Costa Blanca. Benidorm is the best-known hub for late nights, live entertainment and a high-energy holiday atmosphere. Alicante offers bars, terraces and a more urban evening scene, while Altea and Javea are better for relaxed cocktails, seafront dinners and stylish low-key nights out. This range means you can choose a resort that matches your pace rather than being tied to one style of evening entertainment.
Shopping
Shopping options range from beachwear and souvenirs to fashion, local produce and market finds. Alicante is one of the better choices for a broader shopping day, while weekly markets across the region are ideal for browsing gifts, accessories and local food. In resort towns, promenade shops are convenient for holiday essentials, but exploring local markets can add more character to the experience.
Getting Around
Getting around Costa Blanca can be simple, especially if you choose a well-connected resort. Alicante Airport is a key gateway, and many travellers rely on transfers, taxis or shuttle services to reach their accommodation. Buses and trams can be useful along parts of the coast, especially between Alicante, Benidorm and nearby towns. If you want to explore more remote beaches, inland villages or multiple resorts at your own pace, car hire can be a practical option.
Money Saving Tips
- Travel in late spring or early autumn for a strong balance of weather and value.
- Compare different resorts rather than booking the first familiar name.
- Consider self-catering if you want flexibility on meals.
- Check whether half board or all inclusive suits your travel style better.
- Stay slightly back from the seafront if location matters less than budget.
- Use public transport for simple coastal journeys where possible.
- Book attractions in advance during peak season if needed.
- Look for local markets and menu del día style lunches for good daytime value.
- Travel with hand luggage only if your trip length allows.
- Use BFM Travels to compare hotels before choosing your final stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Costa Blanca good for a first holiday to Spain?
Yes, Costa Blanca is an easy and popular introduction to Spain for UK travellers thanks to its sunshine, beach resorts, practical travel links and broad accommodation choice.
Which area is best for couples?
Altea, Javea and Moraira are especially appealing for couples seeking a scenic and more relaxed atmosphere.
Is Benidorm the only place worth considering?
No. Benidorm is popular, but Costa Blanca also includes calmer, more stylish and more traditional areas depending on the type of holiday you want.
Can I visit Costa Blanca outside summer?
Yes. Spring and autumn are excellent, and winter can still be attractive for mild sunshine, golf and longer stays.
Is Costa Blanca suitable for family holidays?
Yes, especially in resorts with sandy beaches, family pools and easy access to attractions and dining.
What type of accommodation is available?
You can find apartments, family resorts, boutique hotels, spa hotels, villas and more premium coastal stays across the region.
Do I need a car?
Not always. Major resorts are easy without one, but a car is useful for exploring smaller towns, beaches and inland villages.
Are there all inclusive options?
Yes, especially in larger resorts. They can be a convenient choice for families and travellers who prefer easier budgeting.
How long should I stay?
A week is a popular choice, though shorter breaks work well in Alicante and longer stays suit travellers wanting a slower coastal escape.
What should I compare before booking?
Compare resort style, hotel location, board basis, pool facilities, beach access and whether you want a lively or quieter atmosphere.
Ready to plan Costa Blanca holidays?
Use the BFM Travels Travel Planner to build a personalised trip, compare hotel options on our Hotels page, and explore more sunshine inspiration with Spain Holidays, Greece Holidays and Deals.